The John Walker vs Benriach The Forty

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

The John WalkerBenriach The Forty
DistilleryJohnnie WalkerBenriach
RegionOther ScotchSpeyside
CountryScotlandScotland
TypeBlendedSingle Malt
ABV40%43.5%
AgeNAS40 yr
Price£2000£2748.5
Rating4.63/5

The John Walker

Smoke0/100
Sweetness78/100
Beginner85/100
Value2/100

Benriach The Forty

Smoke0/100
Sweetness53/100
Beginner60/100
Value0/100

The John Walker

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Benriach The Forty

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

The John Walker is rated higher (4.63 vs 0.00).

The John Walker is better value at £2000 vs £2749.

For beginners: The John Walker is more approachable (85/100 beginner score).

The John Walker

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (4.6/5)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Benriach The Forty

Pros

  • +Vibrant, fresh fruit character

Cons

  • More expensive (£2748.5 vs £2000)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 4.6)

Who should buy The?

The John Walker is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Benriach?

Benriach The Forty suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Speyside character.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Honey

Only The John Walker

VanillaTobaccoOld WoodSherried

Only Benriach The Forty

Cooked FruitChocolateNuttyToasted

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